Symbolism is a very important part of Chinese people’s life. A lot of Chinese foods are also symbolic, especially during traditional festivals or other special occasions.

For Chinese New Year:

Black moss seaweed - wealth

Dried Bean Curd - happiness

Chicken - happiness and marriage (especially when served with "dragon foods," such as lobster. Family reunion (if served whole)

Eggs - fertility

Egg Rolls - wealth

Fish served whole - prosperity

Lychee nuts - close family ties

Noodles - A long life

Oranges – wealth, luck

Chicken - part of the symbolism of the dragon and phoenix. At a Chinese wedding, chicken's feet (sometimes referred to as phoenix feet) are often served with dragon foods such as lobster. Chicken is also popular at Chinese New Year, symbolizing a good marriage and the coming together of families (serving the bird whole emphasizes family unity).